A reporter has apologized for referring to first lady Melania Trump as a “hooker.” The reporter — who works for The New York Times — was called out after model Emily Ratajkowski revealed the man’s words on Twitter.

“Sat next to a journalist from the NYT last night who told me ‘Melania is a hooker,'” tweeted Ratajkowski.

New York Times reporter Jacob Bernstein said in his public apology, “My editors have made it clear my behavior was not in keeping with the standards of The Times, and I agree.”

The model added, “It’s crucial to call this out for what it is: slut shaming. I don’t care about her nudes or sexual history and no one should.” She also called the reporter’s remarks “disgusting” and “sexist.” For the record, Ratajkowski was a Bernie Sanders supporter — and has never been a vocal proponent of President Donald Trump or his policies.

The first lady and former model took to Twitter to directly thank Ratajkowski for her support.

“Applause to all women around the world who speak up, stand up and support other women! @emrata #PowerOfEveryWoman#PowerOfTheFirstLady,” wrote Melania Trump.

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New York Times reporter Jacob Bernstein said in his public apology, “My editors have made it clear my behavior was not in keeping with the standards of The Times, and I agree. My mistake, referring to unfounded rumors, shouldn’t reflect on anyone else and I apologize profusely.”

He also said, “Speaking at a party in what I thought was a personal conversation, I nevertheless made a stupid remark about the first lady.”

It’s not the only time an entertainer has had to step forward to publicly defend Melania Trump. Singer Boy George told the Associated Press recently that he felt forced to defend the first lady at a party when he heard criticism. “You know what — as somebody who has a past — I think it’s really wrong and mean-spirited of women to be so abusive.”

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The rules of basic human decency have been rewritten by the press and many public figures under Donald J. Trump’s presidency, which is not even a month old at this point. Entertainers feel free to make sexist comments about his wife and his daughter, Ivanka — while others openly bully his youngest son, Barron.

Related: ‘SNL’ Writer Bullies Barron Trump

It is good Emily Ratajkowski stood up for a fellow model and called out a reporter for those ridiculous remarks. It’s also sad that she showed far more maturity than someone who is supposed to be a serious reporter.

Sexism should always be called out. It seems many people think they get a free pass to be misogynistic when it comes to women who happen to be conservative. They must learn this is not the case.